Danville should return to the begonia

August 31, 2003

Dear Editor:

When tempers in the Senate flared too hot over some political issue, the great senator from Illinois, Everett Dirkson, used to change the subject to "why the marigold better represents America than the rose." Blood pressure came down and smiles widened.

May I make a modest attempt to lower the political rhetoric while actually pleading for the return of the begonia.

Every elegant, mature lady wears a signature perfume. This never means she is staid or boring. To the contrary, she can be vibrant and playful - but a lady knows the value of continuity. The same can be said of Danville. Using the signature perfume as a metaphor, may I plead my case for the return of the begonia as a signature flower for our fair lady, Danville?

The begonia is beautiful. She can eloquently survive periods of neglect without throwing a tantrum and going to seed. The begonia is modest (never exhibits bare spots) and maintains her poise through droughts and cold snaps. She is a class act, and I miss telling friends that when they see the lovely begonia beds, they know they are entering Danville.